# Deviated Uvula Resulting From Herpes Zoster Infection: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A case report describes a deviated uvula caused by herpes zoster infection in a young male patient.

## Contribution

The report highlights a rare clinical manifestation of herpes zoster infection affecting the uvula.

## Key findings

- A 28-year-old male presented with a hockey-stick-shaped swollen uvula due to herpes zoster.
- Uvula deviation was linked to vagus nerve palsy secondary to HZ infection.
- The case emphasizes the importance of recognizing uvula deviation as a sign of viral illness.

## Abstract

The uvula is a soft tissue that freely hangs down from the soft palate posterior margin. It prevents the soft palate from entering the nasopharynx during sneezing and coughing. The uvula contains mucus glands, which help to keep the throat moist and facilitate swallowing. The uvula plays a vital role in speech and helps deflect foreign bodies accidentally entering the oral cavity by triggering the gag reflex on touch. Deviation of the uvula is often an overlooked sign by oral physicians. Deviation of the uvula is linked to viral illnesses such as herpes zoster (HZ), coronavirus disease 2019, obstructive sleep apnea, and peritonsillar abscesses. It also occurs in vagus nerve palsy secondary to HZ infection. The case report describes such an occurrence of hockey-stick-shaped swollen, deviated uvula in a 28-year-old male patient, clinical features, differential diagnosis, and preventive vaccines described here.